Kristian Garic

Kristian: These Saints are the Real Deal

by Kristian Garic,posted Sep 22 2013 8:37PM

A win is a win, any way you can get it. The Saints looked much better in the second half. When you win 31-7, it’s tough to be picky, but I do have some concerns on the offensive side of the ball, on their ability to protect Drew Brees.

But, this defense is the real deal. They allowed just 7 points this week, 14 last week, 17 the week before that. They just don’t give up a lot of points, and they generate a tremendous pass rush. They don’t have to go manufacturing blitzes, it’s a constant pressure, and when you can do that in the NFL, you are going to find your defense rising in the stats.

And, not to nit-pick a win, but the inability to run the ball and the inability to protect Drew Brees are both problems. I don’t care if you are 3-0, or 6-0, when your QB gets sacked at this rate, it’s a legitimate concen. This kind of punishment will continue if the O-line keeps playing this way, and can expose Brees to a higher risk of injury. This whole offense is Drew Brees, and they don’t go anywhere if they don’t protect him.

So, what’s the problem? Well, yes, no question they’re not the same O-line as days of old. They lost Bushrod, Nicks, and Goodwin. And, that sort of thing happens every year, when you make the money decisions. But, also, as much as they want to downplay the lack of Jahri Evans in the lineup, I think it hurt them.

The Real Deal? It’s not too soon to call this team a contender. Statistically, 75% of the teams that start 3-0 make the playoffs. I like the odds. Now, every year, every team has its issues. This year, for the Saints, it’s along the O-line. Right now, the Saints are a legitimate undefeated team. They found a way to win in the first two games, getting it done, and wound up running away (pun intended) with a win vs. Arizona.

Gotta agree with your assessment of the O-line and running game. Both need serious work. Brees is gonna get hurt, and they can't be depending on his arm all the time to get us points.

09/22/2013 11:12PM

Defense only allowed 7 points in Tampa game

Our Defense allowed only 7 points by Tampa. The other 7 was the result of a pick 6.

09/23/2013 12:29PM

Balance on offense

When tha saints pass as much as they did in the first three games you gonna give up some sacks.Run the ball more Payton

09/24/2013 7:12AM

O-Line

I agree the players up front need to come together or coach Payton. Needs to find a answer to protect drew brees

09/25/2013 12:46PM

3-0, 4-0, 5-0?

That could well be the records of the next three teams we face! Of course, I hope we are 6-0 when we are done. The next three weeks should tell if we are the best in the NFL--or at least the Top 3 with Seattle and Denver!

09/26/2013 8:38AM

The Big Check

When Drew took the huge payday, he had to know that the O-line was gonna go. Now he gets to take the hits that come with a big payday.